From the waxy, white leaves of the orange tree comes the wonderfully aromatic neroli oil! Often associated with royalty, this heady fragrance has been a staple in perfumery for centuries, and in aromatherapy it:
- Offers soothing serenity.
- Helps instill a sense of joy and positivity.
- Can be uplifting, especially when paired with citrus scents.
What is Neroli?
Imagine yourself wandering through an orange grove in early spring, where the white, soft blossoms of the trees are unfolding to greet the warming sun and the delicate, rich scent of sweet flowers fills the air like a dream… These blossoms are found growing on the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium), native to eastern Africa and the tropics of Asia, though naturalized throughout many areas of the world thanks to the multitude of uses this versatile plant has to offer.
Neroli has been used for a number of practices for centuries. Ancient Egyptian priests and priestesses would use the light, sweetly scented oil in spiritual applications, while the ancient Chinese wove these flowers into headpieces and bouquets as a symbol of purity, virtue, and fertility in marriage. However, it’s thanks to Anne Marie Orsini, 17th century princess of Nerola, Italy, for truly popularizing the scent of neroli—so much so that its moniker is derived from her home!
Today, neroli is a staple in perfumery, standing strong as one of the most widely used floral scents in the industry. In fact, the famous Eau-de-Cologne perfume from Germany uses neroli as one of its main ingredients! Neroli’s enchanting scent, paired with the 1,000 pounds of flowers (which are hand-gathered) needed to create just 1 pound of oil, makes it one of the most coveted (and expensive) oils on the market.
Neroli Essential Oil
Neroli oil is often used synonymously with orange blossom oil, however these two oils are significantly different. While they are derived from the same flowers of the same tree, their distillation processes create two distinct essential oils with unique scents of their own. While true orange blossom oil is created by solvent extraction of these waxy flowers (creating an absolute), neroli oil is steam distilled from the flowers, creating a much more floral and less citrus-like scent.
Light, floral, and sweet, neroli essential oil offers soothing serenity in aromatherapy. Its scent is notably tranquil, and for some helps with feelings of joyous hope and uplifting positivity.
Blending essential oils opens up a world of aromatherapy possibilities! Other oils that complement neroli oil’s sweet fragrance include: chamomile, clary sage, coriander, frankincense, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, jasmine, juniper, lavender, lemon, mandarin, myrrh, orange, rose, sandalwood, and ylang ylang oils.
Piping Rock 100% pure Neroli Oil is available in 1/2 oz. & 2 oz. bottles.
Neroli Oil Directions for Use
Add 3-5 drops of Neroli Oil to a diffuser or vaporizer, to a bowl of steaming water or a hot bath to fill a room with its floral scent. To use topically, add ~5 drops of Neroli Oil to ~10 mL of any Piping Rock carrier oil.
Neroli Oil is for external use only and should be diluted in a carrier oil such as sweet almond, jojoba, grapeseed or avocado oil before being used topically. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin. Always consult your trusted physician before adding any essential oil to your regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking any medications. Discontinue use and alert your doctor should an adverse reaction occur. Keep out of reach of children and away from eyes and mouth. Essential oils are flammable.
